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Banh Mi Bowls with Lemongrass Meatballs Recipe

Banh Mi Bowls with Lemongrass Meatballs Recipe

4.7 from 27 reviews

These Banh Mi Bowls take all the fresh, tangy, and savory flavors of a traditional Banh Mi sandwich and turn them into a colorful rice bowl! Featuring juicy lemongrass meatballs, pickled veggies, and a creamy mayo sauce over rice, this dish is perfect for a light and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Lemongrass Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 2 tablespoons lemongrass paste (or finely minced fresh lemongrass)
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Pickled Veggies:

  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup thinly sliced cucumbers or radishes
  • 1/2 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce

Bowls:

  • 2 cups cooked white rice or brown rice
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Pickle the Veggies: In a bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Add carrots and cucumbers. Let them sit for at least 15–30 minutes (or longer for more flavor).
  2. Make the Meatballs: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix all meatball ingredients together in a bowl until just combined. Roll into small balls and place on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
  3. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, stir together mayo, sriracha, and soy sauce. Adjust spiciness to your liking.
  4. Assemble the Bowls: Divide rice between 4 bowls. Top with meatballs, pickled veggies, a drizzle of spicy mayo, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges.

Notes

  • You can sub ground chicken or turkey for pork.
  • Lemongrass paste is a great shortcut and easy to find in the refrigerated herb section.
  • These meatballs freeze well—perfect for meal prep!

Nutrition